Beer pick of the week: Full Sail IPA
August 28th, 2008 by Jeff Holland in Drink
Full Sail IPA
Full Sail Brewing Company
Hood River, OR
6.0% ABV
Full Sail beers are ubiquitous in the Pacific Northwest, but are just showing up in Georgia. The labels seemed to be redesigned from the way I remember them, touting that the brewery is “independent” and “employee-owned.” I don’t know if this has anything to do with recent mergers in the world of industrial lagers, but as long as it’s true, I have no problem with it.
Superb clarity, a nice, persistent cap of off-white head, and some sticky lacing give the Full Sail IPA an inviting appearance. The aroma has a sweet, floral essence with a hint of pine and lemon tea. The taste echoes the nose, with some fruity, pale malt to back up the soapy, leafy hop flavors. There’s bit of aspirin astringency in the finish, but the lively carbonation and bright character give it an easy drinkability. A well-balanced IPA and a good stepping stone for those looking for more flavor in their beer.
(photo by Jeff Holland)
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